As accidents caused by frustration while driving continue to occur, "anger management," a mental training method for dealing with anger effectively, is gaining attention as a skill that can help prevent accidents caused by frustration while driving.

Dealing with frustration through anger management

Anger management is not a method to prevent anger, but a way to communicate anger effectively without exploding. Also, when you cannot identify the person you are angry with, it is possible to calm the power of your anger yourself and reduce stress.

Irritation that only occurs in a car

It is said that drivers tend to feel as if they are one with their car when they are in the enclosed space of a car.

Being able to drive at speeds of over 100km/h with simple controls is exhilarating. This can lead to a false sense of omnipotence, and people tend to become angry when things around them don't go the way they want them to. In other words, driving can be a time when people are prone to becoming "irritated."

Anger management tips to control frustration

"My car is stuck in a traffic jam and won't move forward..." "I keep hitting red lights and can't move forward!" If you're feeling frustrated, we'll introduce some anger management methods you can try, starting with initial responses, follow-up actions, and prevention.

1. The initial response is important! What you can do in those 6 seconds when frustration is at its peak

When you feel irritated, a stress hormone called "adrenaline" is released, and it is said that the peak release of this adrenaline lasts for 6 seconds.

After six seconds, your adrenaline levels will gradually decrease, so if you can keep those first six seconds in check, your frustration shouldn't last any longer.

There are several ways to get through those frustrating six seconds. Try out the method that works best for you, as long as it doesn't jeopardize your driving.

• Deep breath
  Taking three deep breaths will make the six seconds fly by, and it's the easiest, most effective, and healthiest way to do it.

• Counting
  Rather than counting seconds, count slowly to 100. Counting backwards from 100 using the countdown method is also recommended, as it engages the frontal lobe, as will be explained later.

• Cool the body
  If you have an ice pack or a wet towel, try applying it to your neck to cool your body.

• Drinks, gum and candy
  This is also an easy way to change your mood.

• stretch
  It is also effective to stretch your upper body, focusing on your shoulders, while stopped, within a safe area.

2. Let go of anger through visualization

This is a method to try after you have calmed down a little by taking a deep breath for 6 seconds. Slowly open and close the hand that is not holding the steering wheel.

At this time, it is best to imagine that you are letting go of the anger you are holding on to.

3. Mindfulness engages the frontal lobe

The amygdala, known as the anger center, immediately responds to unpleasant stimuli. Mindfulness meditation reduces the function of the amygdala and increases activity in the frontal lobe.

Counting also activates the frontal lobe, as does focusing solely on your breathing.

It is also important to create an environment in the car that does not cause frustration.

When you start to feel irritated, you suddenly start noticing the dirt and unnecessary items inside your car. Make it a habit to create a stress-free space.

4. Help create a stress-free environment: Enjoy music in the car

There are even select albums of healing music that are "recommended for listening in the car" or "music to listen to when you're feeling irritated."

Songs with many of the same frequencies as the sound of a babbling brook or waves, such as "1/f fluctuations," which relieve tension in the brain when it is irritated and tense, and songs that induce theta (theta) waves, which activate the frontal lobe and reduce the activity of the amygdala, are said to be effective in preventing irritability.

For example, Shogi player Hifumi Kato, also known as "Hifumin," apparently fell into a major slump and went through a period where he just couldn't win no matter how hard he tried.

However, after listening to Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 3, he felt much lighter and was able to play in a more relaxed manner, and from then on he started winning again and escaped his slump.

Mozart is a prime example of a soothing composer. Mr. Kato may have been frustrated by not being able to win, causing tension in his brain. This may be a real-life example of the alpha wave effect of Mozart's music.

However, some people may find it too relaxing and feel sleepy, so be careful. Also, refrain from listening to music while driving as there is a risk of an accident.

It might be a good idea to create an album of your favorite songs to use while driving.

Also, if you concentrate on listening to the music of your favorite composer, you probably won't even notice the traffic jams. One person said that after listening to Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (the "Ninth") from the first movement through to the final movement, the "Ode to Joy," he was so moved that he "no longer cared about the traffic jams."

5. Create a relaxing atmosphere with your favorite aromas

The air inside the car can become stuffy and the unpleasant smell can be overwhelming, which can make you feel more irritated.

One way to create a relaxing space is to use your favorite subtle aromas! There are many essential oils that have a calming effect, so why not give them a try?

Irritability is related to physical condition

Your physical condition is closely related to your emotions. Unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid driving on days when you are not feeling well. On days like this, you may find yourself getting irritated by things that you would not normally notice.

Relax at home by listening to some relaxing music and enjoy your drive in the best possible condition.